COUDERSPORT — Cherry Springs State Park will offer “Nature at Night” and “Full Moon & Planet Watch” programs the weekend of Aug. 16-17.
From 7:30 to 8:15 p.m. Aug. 16 or 17, join park staff at the Night Sky Viewing Area for Nature at Night, a free, family-friendly program on fascinating night creatures, such as fireflies, bats, black bears and coyotes, based on animal activity in the park. Preregistration is not required.
The free Full Moon & Planet Watch will be from 9 to 10:30 p.m. both days in the park’s Night Sky Viewing Area. Participants will explore some of the moon’s fascinating features from highlands to volcanic plains and discover where lunar landings took place. They will have a chance to get an up-close look at the moon through park telescopes. Preregistration is required.
To preregister for the free Full Moon & Planet Watch, visit http://events.dcnr.pa.gov/cherry_springs_state_park. If there is a problem with registering online or for information about other programs offered at the park, call 435-1037 or email cherryspringsee@pa.gov.
Anyone may observe the night sky at Cherry Springs on his or her own without attending a stargazing program. All visitors should arrive before dark. Search for the Clear Sky Chart online for 48-hour forecasts about viewing conditions.
Those who get to the park early are always welcome to bring a picnic supper and make use of the park’s picnic grove near the Night Sky Viewing Area. The grove has picnic tables and charcoal grills onsite. Preregistration is not required to picnic in the park.
Cherry Springs State Park at 4639 Cherry Springs Road, Coudersport, Pa. 16915 is 12 miles from Route 6 in Galeton via West Branch Road and 15 miles from Coudersport via Route 44. Programs will be cancelled if it rains or thunders.
